With a wide range of free events taking place year-around, there’s always something to celebrate in Santa Cruz County every weekend. See what’s happening in Santa Cruz County and check out events here!
Around the World in 60-90 Minutes! The first Saturday of each month, the Arboretum offers a docent or staff-led tour of the Arboretum. Sometimes you will see New Zealand, South […]
Enjoy 13 days of frightful fun on the Santa Cruz Wharf! Take part in the Great Pumpkin BINGO Hunt, snap a photo at our scenic photo booth, and enjoy festive Wharf […]
Dine, shop and explore the Seabright neighborhood while it has restricted car access and enjoy the walkability and views! You could win a souvenir with only one stamp! How to […]
Travel over trestles, through towering redwood groves and up a winding narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain as conductors narrate the history of Roaring Camp, the railroad and […]
Come hang out in the secret garden and have some laughs, EVERY MONDAY NIGHT. Featuring comedians from all over the area and beyond.
The Felton Farmers’ Market is a treasured weekly gathering May through October, now running for over 30 years. We appreciate the dedicated customers who call this market a second home. […]
Award-winning author Joshua McFadden for will be discussing and signing his highly anticipated new cookbook Six Seasons of Pasta. In his follow-up to Six Seasons: A New Way with Vegetables, […]
Spice up your Tuesdays! Enjoy a sizzling social dance party every Tuesday night! Move to the rhythms of salsa, cumbia, merengue, and bachata in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. It’s free, […]
Once a year for eight days local food culture is celebrated as chefs showcase their creative talents. Guests dining at participating restaurants can enjoy a fixed-price, three-course dinner menu for […]
The Ladybug’s Labyrinth at Mariquita Farm is open for U-Pick marigold harvests by individuals or groups. Hundreds of Chedi Orange Marigolds surround the labyrinth, making it a fun visual experience. […]
The Downtown Santa Cruz Market runs year-round on Wednesdays, 1-5pm year round. Our largest and oldest market, it is situated in the heart of Downtown Santa Cruz, one block off […]
Trivia every Wednesday! Hosted at Front and Cooper inside of Abbott Square Market Go test your knowledge, win some prizes and have some hand crafted cocktails! Brought to you by […]
Kellen Erskine is a stand-up comedian known for his sharp observational humor and relatable stories, blending wit with a subdued stage presence. He has appeared on national television shows such […]
Chardonnay Sailing Charters features a different local winery every Friday evening from May through October. Enjoy the fabulous wines provided and entice your palate with complimentary hours-d'oeuvres while taking in […]
Whim & Wonder invites you into a world where the extraordinary hides in plain sight. This exhibition celebrates the playful elegance and curious brilliance found in the overlooked, the reimagined, […]
This exhibition will feature master shaper, Bob Pearson's precisely fashioned replicas of redwood o'lo boards first created by the princes in 1885 and ridden at the mouth of the San […]
Far West Fungi’s Santa Cruz Store & Café is launching Myco-Mixers - Enjoy an afternoon of food, fun, and fungi! Each Myco-Mixer will feature complimentary bites, product samples, and happy […]
Come for great food and good vibes! Treat yourself to our mouthwatering specialty pub-style dishes, available for a limited time. They’re even better when paired with one of the Bay […]
Go to the ballet in your Halloween costume! It doesn’t have to be a Nutcracker-related. There will be a Costume Contest, and the winner will get an awesome prize! So […]
Based on the novel by Stephen King, Misery keeps the audience on the edge of their seats as they witness the peril-fraught relationship between a novelist, Paul Sheldon, and his […]
The Watsonville Farmers Market is every Friday afternoon from 2-7 all year round at the City Plaza in Downtown Watsonville. Don't miss out on the wonderful locally grown fresh fruits, […]
Due to the Murray Bridge closure, the Water Taxi is now available through October. Go explore the harbor shops, restaurants and experiences with very little car traffic! Passengers may be […]
Head to Skypark in Scotts Valley for the area’s largest food truck festival! Lots of excitement, more food vendors, the fabulous SVEF Beer & Wine Garden, amazing Live Music and […]
The LAST Food Truck Friday of 2025 in Scotts Valley is always an EPIC Party! Enjoy a Halloween style Food Truck party with live music from local fave: The Dadbeats. […]
Join the county Sheriff's Department for their annual Trunk or Treat event! Decorated Trunks, candy, games, food vendors and more! Free parking and shuttle service will be provided at the […]
Kianti’s is bringing “The Nightmare Before Christmas” back to life. This holiday performance features Jack Skellington, pizza spinners, dancing staff and a flame-raising kitchen. Shows every Friday & Saturday night […]
This nighttime experience will bring you a magical and immersive perspective on the ancient forest at Roaring Camp. During the 0.8-mile loop walk, you will view 26 unique, lighted lanterns, […]
Enjoy drinks (cash bar), a heavy bites station, a vampire DJ, dancing, a costume contest, photo opportunities and entertainment including fortune tellers & fire dancers!
Market customers appreciate the bountiful selection of top quality produce and specialty foods as well as the opportunity to connect with the farmers and vendors who produce it. Ninety vendors, […]
Established in 2009 with the City of Scotts Valley, this market has become a seasonal treasure to the local community and to those visiting the area looking for a place […]
The Westside Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday, year round at the corner of Hwy 1 and Western Drive. Here we serve the communities of the west end of Santa […]
Docent-led tours of the Elkhorn Slough Reserve are every Saturday AND Sunday, at 10 am and 11 am. Tours are on a first-come, first-serve basis - visitors may sign up […]
Bring your appetite and join the fun as both professional and amateur chefs work their culinary magic and compete for the title of Best Chili!
🍎 Sweet Water Farms U-Pick Apple Orchard 🍎 Spend a beautiful day at Sweet Water Farms in Watsonville picking your own apples straight from the orchard! Bring family and friends […]
Just in time for Halloween, head to the outdoor market with unique artisans while taking in the spectacular view of the ocean. This one-of-a-kind market will be held in two […]
10:30 AM - 2:30, Saturdays and Sundays, October 4th and 5th, 11th and 12th, 26th and 24th, 26th.
On this 2.5-mile, 2-hour family-friendly walk, you will explore the plants, animals, and geology of the Santa Cruz County coastal bluffs. Bring water, a hat, closed-toe shoes, layered clothing, and […]
Enjoy a rockin' Halloween party that's equal parts spooky and spectacular. The Rock and Roll Playhouse wants to see your best costumes! From tiny rock stars to mini superheroes, the […]
The Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Passport is the ultimate way to explore the region’s award-winning wineries. This exclusive pass provides access to over 35+ participating wineries, each offering unique tasting […]
This October look forward to another vibrant gathering to gather and celebrate life and death. For years, the team at the MAH has had the opportunity to experience, grow, and […]
The Santa Cruz Port District is excited to announce that Haunted Harbor will return this year for an evening of spooky fun and trick-or-treating. Participating in trick-or-treating qualifies for a […]
For this 21+ Halloween party, go in your spookiest-themed attire and enjoy cauldron-concocted cocktails, creepy curiosities, and a costume contest for best dressed. As additional show-stoppers, this year there will […]
Enjoy a magical night of enchantment at the Brookdale Lodge. Get ready to dance under the moonlight, mingle with fellow witches, werewolves, vampires, zombies, and of course you never know […]
Every Sunday at Noon Experience a guided hike through an old-growth redwood forest filled with ancient trees over 200 feet tall. Connect one on one with park staff. […]
Celebrate Halloween on Saturday, the 26th with trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and spooktacular Boardwalk fun! It's always free to enter the Boardwalk, but if you would like to receive a […]
Bring the family to Santa Cruz Maker Studios for an afternoon full of Halloween fun. Kids and parents alike can come in costume, enjoy free snacks and drinks, and dive […]
Ghosts, goblins, boys, and ghouls...join us for the annual Capitola Village Halloween Parade! Lineup begins at 1:30pm in the lower Beach & Village Parking Lot 2 behind the Capitola Police […]
Attention all ghouls and ghosts! 🧛♂️🕷️ Enjoy a hauntingly good time as you trick-or-treat your way through downtown Watsonville businesses! 🎃💀 Save the date and fill your bags with treats […]
Bring your 21 and older friends for a night of fun and frights! Enjoy this classic horror and suspense film that pays homage to an earlier classic horror and suspense […]
Go see "The Citizen Kane of horror movies" on the eve of all hallows eve, or the eve of witches new year for a fantastic evening! The cult classic horror […]
Every year on Halloween, dozens of women dress up as witches and glide along Monterey Bay on stand-up-paddleboards. In silhouette, their paddles look like brooms as they magically glide along […]
Check website for times of operation.
Every Halloween, the Santa Cruz Police Department and the City of Santa Cruz close down Pacific Avenue for kids to trick or treat! Watch for signs in the windows of […]
The Halloween Aptos Chamber Parade is creeping into town, and you won't want to miss it! Enjoy a fang-tastic time behind the New Leaf Community Market in the Aptos Village […]
Little witches, goblins, ghosts, superheroes and their parents can enjoy trick-o-treating on the beautiful Santa Cruz Wharf. Stroll the Wharf and visit your favorite businesses for sweet surprises. Special guests […]
It's your Fur Baby's time to shine!! Sign up your dog to model their costume on the Abbott Square stage during the Halloween Dog Costume Contest. Prizes for best costumes. […]
Put on your silliest, scariest or wackiest costume and join the Boulder Creek Downtown Trick or Treat on Halloween! Go by the Business Association table in front of the Sheriff […]
Get ready for a spooktacular evening at the Abbott Square Market Halloween Bash! Hosted by Afrobeats Nite SC, this community celebration brings festive fun for all ages. -Enjoy live music […]
No-cover, free gathering, family friendly dance party! Enjoy the curated global grooves of DJ Monk Earl while grabbing a bite and a drink at Abbott Square!
The First Ever Monsters Ball at Park Hall Step into the shadows for a night of music, mischief, and monstrous fun at the inaugural Monsters Ball — a Halloween celebration […]
For ages 16 and up, head to the Catalyst for a costume party featuring Pacific Roots. Quickly becoming one of Santa Cruz's next premier Reggae/Rock groups, Pacific Roots is building […]
There will be complimentary Chili and Cornbread served from 8pm until they run out. The costume contest will have 1st,2nd and 3rd place prizes. Judging between 11:30 and midnight. Must […]
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Event is free, day-use parking fee is $10.
See community altars and live/dead performances. There will be family activities and a market of the dead. Celebrate this beautiful tradition featuring altars, live music and dance and hands-on activities.
Holst’s best-known composition The Planets evokes planetary gods such as War, Peace, and Magic in an unforgettably powerful orchestral experience. Hindemith’s legendary viola concerto Der Schwanendreher features rising star viola […]
It’s a celebration of the best of arts and culture in public radio form! Join the live taping of Bullseye with Jesse Thorn with a stacked line-up of special guests. […]
This special Día de los Muertos edition of Calles Libres (Open Streets) will transform downtown Watsonville into a joyful space where the streets belong to the people. Bring your bike, […]
Holst’s best-known composition The Planets evokes planetary gods such as War, Peace, and Magic in an unforgettably powerful orchestral experience. Hindemith’s legendary viola concerto Der Schwanendreher features rising star viola […]
Enjoy a night of danza, prayer, food, and music. This cultural and family event is free and open to all! There will be processions of sugar calaveras (skulls), papel picado […]
Artists set up their easels on the wharf, shore, and streets of beautiful Capitola, to paint live for four days. You'll find hundreds of paintings on display, for sale, and […]
California King Tides are coming to the shores of Santa Cruz County this winter! These naturally occurring and predictable events are when the highest and lowest tides hit our shores […]
Enjoy a quiet exploration of Quail Hollow Ranch, under the moonlight. On this one-hour guided hike on the lower trails, you can search for critters and meander through the forest. […]
This 90-minute, behind-the-scenes hiking tour takes visitors into Younger Lagoon Reserve adjacent to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Part of the University of California Natural Reserve System, Younger Lagoon Reserve contains diverse […]
The University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) is the only UC campus with a foundry. This Green Lab Certified feature of the UC system was created by UC Santa Cruz […]
On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block […]
Head to Downtown Boulder Creek to discover art and crafts for the season! Enjoy live music as you stroll and find tasty food and drink to purchase along the way!
See the 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024 NBA G League Franchise of the Year on their home turf! All home games with the Santa Cruz Warriors will continue to feature […]
Check out hundreds of sweet hot rods, street rods, vintage, muscle, custom, and classic cars in the Boardwalk Parking Lot. Free admission!
Kids enter free to the Santa Cruz Sea Glass & Ocean Art Festival. The festival features genuine sea glass and artist-made creations while benefiting our local marine environment. This year […]
Bring your friends, family and neighbors and come out to enjoy good old-fashioned activities such as spinning wool, cheese making, wooden cow milking and ice cream making! You can even […]
Davenport goes beyond a beautiful place to get away from it all. Just minutes north on the Pacific Coast Highway, Davenport has stunning sweeping ocean and cliff views, the first […]
On this hike you will be discovering the natural history of Wilder Ranch as well as the people and forces that shaped it. Be prepared to explore for 5 hours […]
The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am-5pm, weather permitting. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles […]
Presenting the Downtown Santa Cruz Fall Wine Walk 2025! Enjoy the heart of the Central Coast to taste great wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond. Sip while strolling […]
Combining their love of ska, surfer rock, punk, tango, ragtime and Devo, the Aquabats bring the excitement of a 1950’s campy comic book to a concert stage! Expect costumed villains […]
See the 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024 NBA G League Franchise of the Year on their home turf! All home games with the Santa Cruz Warriors will continue to feature […]
Enjoy sipping local wines and beers while strolling through our charming shops and boutiques in Capitola by the Sea. Pre-registration includes: – Capitola Village Sip & Stroll commemorative glass – […]
Following its 2023 debut, Broadsides No. 2 returns this fall to M.K. Contemporary Art with a dynamic exploration of the connection between poetry and visual art. Nine nationally recognized poets […]
Mountainfilm on Tour brings a selection of culturally rich, adventure-packed and inspiring documentary films curated from the Mountainfilm festival in Telluride, Colorado. Head to the Rio Theatre and explore themes […]
Enjoy the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market every THIRD Sunday in 2025! Featuring 40+ local makers & artists, this market hosts a wide range of locally handmade goods. Find some […]
This 90-minute tour is led by State Park docents who will share the history of the Castro family, and the two-story adobe hacienda built over 170 years ago. Enjoy a […]
Head to the Paradox Hotel for an Ocean Themed Art and Sea Glass Fair, with an edge! Vendors will be on theme with local art, ocean themes, sea glass like […]
The Santa Cruz Symphony has been spotlighting the artistry of outstanding musicians in a series of intimate recitals. Here is your chance to see a recital with The Maestro, Daniel […]
A night of short and long-form improv comedy with veteran improvisors, Rafe Chase, Dixie Cox, and Clifford Henderson. Music by Neil Pomerleau. Yes, they'll bringing world-famous Rafe Chase down to […]
Welcome to the magical world of Cinderella, coming to Santa Cruz this Fall!An enchanting story for all ages with a wonderful dose of humor, majesty of classical ballet and the […]
Go on. Earn that feast! Flat, fast out and back courses that begin & end on Delaware Street by the back entrance to Natural Bridges. A run with spectacular ocean […]
Enjoy the heart of Aptos village for an exciting afternoon of wine tasting! Bring your holiday shopping list along. Discover local Santa Cruz Mountains wineries, while strolling through Aptos Village […]
Following a sold out run in 2024, A Christmas Carol returns as a holiday tradition for the whole family! Audiences can expect a theatrical and music-filled adaptation of this classic […]
Wax is mostly known as a rapper. He is also a producer, songwriter, singer (kind of), comedian, and all around creative dude. He has been making music for many many […]
Daniel is best known for hosting and creating TOSH.0, which aired on Comedy Central from 2009-2020. The show showcased internet clips with the addition of Daniel’s comedic perspective. It was […]
Gayle’s will start taking Thanksgiving orders on October 3rd. There are limited quantities, so make sure you order early! They have everything from traditional turkey dinners, sides & appetizers, dinner […]
Just in time for holiday shopping, head to the outdoor market with unique artisans while taking in the spectacular view of the ocean. This one-of-a-kind market will be held in […]
Get in the holiday spirit by bringing the family to ride the Redwood Forest Steam Train through the wintry redwoods to Bear Mountain. Sip hot cider while greeting Santa Claus. […]
Santa has lost his reindeer, but you can help find them! Pick up a map at the Downtown Santa Cruz Information Kiosk, located at 1130 Pacific Avenue K2, the corner […]
A seasonal tradition returns to Santa Cruz with the Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train. Vintage excursion cars, adorned with thousands of colorful lights, roll through city streets past homes of […]
The Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Agricultural History Project will again present HOLIDAY LIGHTS 2025 at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Starting November 28, 2025 – Holiday Lights […]
This is a walk-in Christmas display located in the midtown of Santa Cruz, CA. Their exhibit is very traditional: lots of Christmas trees, garlands, sleighs, an elf village, miniature village’s, […]
See the 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024 NBA G League Franchise of the Year on their home turf! The first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive a Santa Cruz Warriors […]
Over a decade of Makers Markets in Felton! Let the holiday shopping begin! Head to the Felton Community Hall on Saturday, November 29 from 10am-5pm. FREE Admission! Shop with over […]
Heritage Holiday Craft and Gift Fair returns for its 47th season! Go see what has become the official start of the holiday season in the Pajaro Valley. With three big […]
Bundle up in the tackiest sweater you’ve ever been gifted for the holidays and head to the redwoods! As you look through arts and crafts, you will be treated to […]
Music for the Feast of Christmas -- the way to begin your Holiday! The Cabrillo Symphonic Chorus will present its annual Music for the Feast of Christmas performance. Performance starts […]
Go meet and get your picture taken with Santa and his friends at the Chaminade as you enjoy a festive brunch and beautiful views of the Monterey Bay.
The traditional holiday parade is the official kickoff for the winter holidays celebration. One never knows exactly what to expect at the Parade, but you can be sure to expect […]
Take a walk around historic Capitola Village and fill your box with delicious holiday cookies from participating stores! Enjoy this family friendly stroll! Follow the link in the orange button […]
Go check out the Sea to Sky farm house, and learn to make a beautiful locally sourced, seasonal wreath to adorn your home for the winter months. They will have […]
Head to the Aptos Village Green to see local craft vendors, sip coffee or hot chocolate with your cookies and have a picture with Santa. Enjoy music, performances, and of […]
The Boulder Creek Winter Festival is a celebration of the holiday season, bringing together families and friends to enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment. From the enchanting tree lighting […]
The Lighted Boat Parade features 50 beautifully decorated power and sailboats parading through the Santa Cruz Harbor. Limited viewing is available from the Murray Street bridge, from the East Harbor […]
Get your friends and family together for a free event full of fun vendors, kid's activities, Santa, wine and so much more!
See the 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024 NBA G League Franchise of the Year on their home turf! All home games with the Santa Cruz Warriors will continue to feature […]
Learn about fascinating fungi and the basics of mushroom identification; just looking, not eating! Open to ages 8 and up. An adult must accompany ages 17 & under.
Get ready for a festive extravaganza at the Holiday Market Winter Wonderland! Building on the success of last year’s Splash with Santa event, The County Parks and Rec are bringing […]
Get into the holiday spirit and explore Santa Cruz’s creative heart at the Annual Winter Art Market, presented by the Arts Council Santa Cruz County. Enjoy live music, tasty food, […]
Enjoy the Steve Abrams Jazz Trio as you merry at the Holiday Wine and Charcuterie celebration. Go get your first pour and plate at the crush pad, then find a […]
Experience the magic of the season at the Wee Kirk Holiday Market, a special evening celebration inspired by traditional European Christmas markets. Enjoy an enchanting night of festive lights, local […]
A gorgeous evening of choral music by the stunning voices of Cantíamo!
Santa Cruz Symphony's Holiday Pops Concert offers festive favorites including holiday music by Leroy Anderson, the lighthearted and nostalgic Symph-Hanukkah, selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, and singalong tunes in a […]
Enjoy the Artisan Fair! Explore unique creations from local artists and makers, such as clothing, jewelry, skin care, candles, toys, bags and more! Enjoy live music from 1–3 PM, and […]
Get whisked away into the whimsical world of Toy Trains and enjoy this beloved annual pop-up exhibit at the MAH. Members of the Golden State Toy Train Operators will be […]
Come enjoy holiday decorations, Wharf specials and see Santa arrive on the Wharf by a vintage fire engine!🎅 📸Take photos with Santa! ☃️ Checkout Wharf Business Specials! ❄️Play in the […]
Felton Music Hall Presents the high energy, soulful music of Snail, from right here in Santa Cruz. You may remember their signature song, "The Joker" from their albums in the […]
See the 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024 NBA G League Franchise of the Year on their home turf! The first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive a Santa Cruz Warriors […]
Los Lobos are a groundbreaking American band known for fusing traditional Mexican music with rock, country, folk, R&B, and other vernacular styles. They gained international fame with their cover of […]
The title of internationally acclaimed Jesse Daniel's latest country album refers to the mountains creeks and redwoods of his home here in Santa Cruz County. Join in welcoming the Son […]
Sean and the Skinwalkers is a blues rock trio. Just as comfortable playing traditional blues as they are tearing through a psychedelic rock song, the common thread is always the […]
The 2026 celebration will be at the London Nelson Community Center and feature hundreds of fascinating species from the area, uniquely displayed in a re-created woodland habitat. This unique Santa […]
The legendary Harlem Globetrotters are bringing their 100th Anniversary World Tour to Kaiser Permanente Arena! This one-of-a-kind basketball experience combines jaw-dropping athleticism, hilarious comedy, and unforgettable fan interaction. It’s fun […]
The Catalyst is the perfect venue for Mike Herrera's warm and friendly stage presence. Get up close to the stage, or head to the balcony to take in the experience […]
Attention chowder lovers! Taste the best at the 45th Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off! Sample chowder from Amateur Chefs on Saturday, followed by Professional Chefs on Sunday. Both days feature Boston […]
Get ready for the 4th annual Alfred Hitchcock Festival! There will be film screenings, food, drinks, and more! The Hitchcock Festival offers a rich tapestry of activities, blending screenings of […]
The Watsonville Film Festival promotes Latin and indigenous cultural traditions with free events for the community throughout the year.
Swap out your flip flops for running shoes and join the fun with this family-friendly race through the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk! Run a 1k or a 5k, on this […]
Discover the wonders of mushrooms! Through wild mushroom exploration, cooking and cultivation demos, functional mushroom talks, and DIY workshops, the Santa Cruz Mountain Mushroom Festival offers an incredible opportunity to […]
